Lorna Brooke: Amateur jockey dies in hospital after Taunton racecourse fall in early April

Amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has died in hospital after a fall at Taunton racecourse earlier this month.

Brooke, who was riding Orchestrated for her mother Lady Susan Brooke, fell at the third fence on April 3.

Racing was delayed by more than hour as she was treated on track, before being transferred into an air ambulance.

A statement by the Injured Jockeys Fund said: “It is with deep sadness that we have to share the tragic news that Lorna Brooke passed away yesterday.

“Her family thank everyone for their kindness in the last few weeks, particularly the staff at Southmead Hospital who were so professional.

“They will be having a private funeral and will hold a celebration of Lorna’s life once Covid restrictions allow.”

‘Heartbreakingly sad news’

Sir Anthony McCoy was among the leading racing figures to pay tribute, writing on Twitter: “Heartbreakingly sad news. Thoughts and prayers with her family. RIP Lorna.”

Brooke, 37, who rode as a 7lb-claiming amateur, enjoyed a high-profile success when winning the inaugural Ladies Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse on Moonlone Lane for Paul Stafford in 2015.

A 25-1 chance, Moonlone Lane had gone winless in a 26-race career up to that point, but Brooke guided him home in front, with Katie Walsh, Lizzie Kelly, Rachael Blackmore and Nina Carberry all trailing in her wake. Moonlone Lane then won next time out at Musselburgh under Brooke.

“It’s tragic news, it really is shocking,” Stafford told Sky Sports Racing.

“When she got the fall people were very concerned, we were too and we were saying prayers, but unfortunately this has happened.

“She was a lovely person, obviously she rode that winner for us and we kept in contact over the years through social media, congratulating each other on social media when each of us had winners. It’s shocking it’s happened.”

‘All racecourses will observe a period of silence’

The Racecourse Association said in a statement: “The Racecourse Association is deeply saddened by the tragic news of Lorna Brooke’s death as a result of injuries sustained following a fall whilst race-riding at Taunton Racecourse on Thursday, April 8.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Lorna’s family and friends during this time.

“The RCA is in contact with Taunton Racecourse and relevant authorities, offering our support as required.

“All racecourses racing today will observe a period of silence and display black armbands as a mark of respect to Lorna’s memory.”